Toyota Tundra fans got to check out the next year’s model at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show which will be at the dealers in September. The full sized Tundra comes in 5 grades (SR, SR5, Limited and the two premium grades Platinum and 1794 Edition) each offering its own distinct advantages and options.

2014 Tundra Double Cab

Even the base line SR is loaded with features including a display audio with a backup camera and Bluetooth built in. Our NorCalCars.com test team was impressed by the visibility offered by the backup camera. Guide lines help to establish the distance of object on the screen and the camera automatically switched on based on user programmed preferences. We had the camera set for backing up and right turn. At first the camera switching on was a little distracting, especially when preparing for right hand turns, but we got used to that quickly and could appreciate the additional visual coverage increasing safety when slowing down for a turn.

Other standard features include the STAR Safety System (Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop (SST) brake override technology ) with Vehicle Stability Control and Smart Stop Technology and 8 standard airbags.
Premium models take is a bit further with a blind spot monitor and a rear cross traffic alert. LED daytime running lights, manual headlamp leveling, knee airbags (driver and front outboard passenger) and the largest front brakes in the class all add to the additional safety afforded with the 2 premium models offered by Toyota.

This year’s Tundra offering includes a 5.7 liter V8 has the power (381hp) to tow over 10,000 lbs and carry more than 2,000 lbs. Other power trains include the 4.0 liter V6 with 270 hp and the 4.6 liter V8 with 310hp. The Tundra comes as a two-door Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab or a four-door CrewMax all of which are available in 2 and 4 wheel drive. The V6 model comes with a 5 speed transmission (with uphill/downhill shift logic) and the two V8 power trains with a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

2014 Tundra Interior

Holding to the “Work Truck” image of the Toyota Tundra, the front seat of both the Double Cab and CrewMax have the option of a bench or bucket seats, a useful feature when trying to pack the crew in a single vehicle. CrewMax rear seats can now be folded up for additional cargo carrying capability while maintaining a comfortable seating back angle.

For those looking to support workers in the US the Tundra was Engineered, Designed and Assembled in the United States. 75% of the content used for the construction comes from North America.
While the 2014 Toyota Tundra didn’t seem to come with an earth shaking new features or changes it remains a solid, well designed work truck. It’s redesigned interior and exterior gives it a rugged tough truck look that is well matched with a powerful drive train.